The Farr Side: ‘Voicenotes’ conjures late-’80s/early-’90s

Thursday

A year ago, pop songwriter Charlie Puth teased us with the first track from his sophomore album. The single, “Attention,” quickly reached No. 1.

Last fall, Puth dropped “How Long.” Another new track, but no album yet. “How Long” became another big single for the rising star first discovered on YouTube.

Puth’s quick rise meant his follow-up album had to be that much better than his debut, “Nine Track Mind.” That album was spearheaded by No. 1 smash single “See You Again,” featured in the movie “Fast & Furious 7.” It earned Puth three Grammy nominations.

The first album also contained “Marvin Gaye” with Meghan Trainor, “One Call Away” and “We Don’t Talk Anymore” with Selena Gomez.

The pressure to compete with his first album obviously had something to do with the rescheduled dates of release for “Voicenotes.”

“Attention” and “How Long” saw Puth’s growth as a pop star become more evident. This guy is not only a terrific songwriter (i.e. Maroon 5, Jason Derulo, Pitbull and Liam Payne), but he’s also a great vocalist. Vocal changes heard on “Attention” showcase his talents and skills better than we’ve heard yet.

“Voicenotes” is finally available. The new album features 13 tracks, complete with a few surprises like Boyz II Men, Kehlani, and James Taylor.

Puth took more creative control on this record, producing all but one track. He admits in the liner notes of a physical copy that the entire album was made on a Pro Tools rig with a Midi keyboard and a microphone. Who even does that anymore? Puth’s sound is reminiscent of late-’80s and early-’90s pop/R&B sound. The album’s current single, “Done For Me,” pairs Puth with Kehlani. It’s a smooth, uptempo duet where the two singers argue what they’ve done for each other in regard to their relationship. It’s a sweet track.

Boyz II Men lend a capella stylings to Puth’s vocals on “If You Leave Me Now,” which is not a new version of the Chicago song as you might think. It’s an OK track. “Change” features James Taylor. It’s the only track that doesn’t seem to fit.

“The Way I Am” and “LA Girls” are both good tracks. They could be autobiographical as Puth has adjusted to life in the fast lane now being associated romantically with such starlets as Selena Gomez and Hailee Steinfeld, although his lyrics dull in comparison to Swift.

My favorite song has to be “Through It All.” It’s the Charlie Puth I like best. The piano-driven track accentuates his strengths best as a musician, singer, and songwriter. In it he sings, “God only knows I’ve been through it all.” Amen, brother. — David T. Farr can be reached at farrboy@hotmail.com.